Transcriptome-Guided Development of a Fibrosis-Reversal Compound Reduces Skin Scarring and Allows Regeneration via Mitochondrial Uncoupling

May 2026 in “ Cell Reports Medicine ”

Chun-Ye Chen, 许锐林, Mingguang Mo, Jiahao Wu, Jun Chi, Zhang-Rui Wu, Yi Wang, Xin-Cao Zhong, Xiao-Ying Lin, Yang Liu, Jingdong Wu, Huaan Fang, Hongli Jia, Hongsen Bi, Yong Yang, Wei-Qiang Tan, Yang Zhao

FR-1 mitochondrial uncoupling fibroblasts extracellular matrix triamcinolone acetonide fibrosis scar-derived fibroblasts wound model hair follicles skin atrophy TA

TLDR FR-1 reduces skin scarring and promotes healing without harmful effects.

The study investigates the efficacy of a compound, FR-1, in reducing skin scarring and promoting regeneration through mitochondrial uncoupling. Tested on scar-derived fibroblasts from 6 patients and in a murine wound model, FR-1 significantly reduced scar size and preserved hair follicles without adverse effects like skin atrophy or hair follicle damage, unlike current therapies such as triamcinolone acetonide (TA). FR-1 works by inhibiting fibroblast proliferation and remodeling the extracellular matrix, showing potential for broader applications in fibrosis treatment. The compound demonstrated enhanced stability and solubility, with minimal systemic absorption and no adverse effects on major organs, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent for scarless healing.